Report: Mets ‘finalizing’ Francisco Lindor trade with Cleveland

The New York Mets are reportedly close to acquiring all-star shortstop Francisco Lindor from the Cleveland Indians.

ESPN’s Jeff Passan was first to report the trade talks, adding shortstop Andres Gimenez is expected to be part of the return in the trade.

If the Francisco Lindor-to-the-Mets deal is completed as expected, shortstop Andres Gimenez would be part of the package going back to the Cleveland Indians, sources tell ESPN.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) January 7, 2021

Other players reportedly included in the deal in the trade include right-hander Carlos Carassco going to New York and right-hander Josh Wolf, a 2019 second-round pick, going back to Cleveland.

Lindor, 27, is one of a group of dynamic shortstops set to become a free agent after the 2021 season, which is why Cleveland felt it was necessary to trade him now rather than risk losing him for nothing on the open market.

A two-time Gold Glover and two-time Silver Slugger in just five seasons, Lindor energy and star power to the rebuilding Mets. Last season in 60 games for Cleveland, Lindor hit .258/.335/.415 with eight home runs and 27 RBIs.